About
This 36 hectare reserve consists mainly of the critically endangered Swartland granite renosterveld and Cape Flats sand fynbos vegetation types which, in general, are poorly conserved.
In the 1700s the hill overlooking Brackenfell was known as Kanonkop due to the cannon that was stationed there. It was used to signal the farmers of ships arriving in the harbour to which they could sell their produce. A granite quarry was located on the hill between 1950 and the early 1970s after which it was closed down and turned into a landfill site. Bracken Nature Reserve was later earmarked as a core botanical site. In 2013 a ‘6 pounder’ cannon was donated to Bracken by Tygerberg Nature Reserve. Visitors are encouraged to visit the site and learn more of its history.

Perdekop is a 2.2 hectare satellite nature reserve that forms part of the Bracken Nature Reserve cluster situated along Kruin Street. This core botanical site is open to the public on Tuesday from 09:00 to 12:00. The area needs special protection and is a delight to visit. Feel free to contact management for further information.
The nature reserve also supports a great diversity of wildlife. Regularly sighted are the red-capped lark, black-shouldered kite, peregrine falcon, southern double-collared sunbird and many more. Bracken Nature Reserve provides the opportunity for a number of outdoor activities including birdwatching, picnicking and walking. This reserve has a “no-bin policy” and all visitors are encouraged to recycle and re-use all the recyclable materials. Please don't litter.